The International Olympic Committee concluded Wednesday that the marathon and racing walking events will be held in Sapporo, Japan instead of Tokyo at the upcoming Olympic Games.
In Sapporo, the temperatures are five to six degrees cooler than Tokyo on average.
The decision is part of wide-range measurements that were already being taken by Tokyo 2020 organizers in consultation with the IOC and other international federations in order to deal with the heat that is expected to affect the Olympic Games this summer.
However, the fear of heat has been in the air since Tokyo announced its candidature in 2013. There have already been measures put in place that include better shade, water sprays, and plenty of access to water supplies.
There were previous changes made to athletics, rugby, and cycling events. Certain start times have been delayed until later in the day for the athletes to compete under cooler temperatures.
The opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games is scheduled for Friday July 24, 2020.